Avocados are becoming so popular in the U.K. that Tesco has launched a spreadable version of the fruit as a healthier substitute for butter.

Following on from other avocado product launches and innovations, Tesco is now stocking a dairy-free avocado spread.

"Shoppers can’t get enough of avocados which have become extremely popular on account of their great taste, versatility in food and drinks as well as for their nutritional benefits," says Tesco buyer Dean Rawlinson.

According to a release, avocados have become so popular in Britain, they have overtaken sales of oranges which were historically a firm favorite amongst U.K. shoppers.

This week’s launch follows the U.K.’s first ever perfectly ripe frozen avocados as well the giant Avozilla, five times larger than a standard sized variety.

"We’re always looking for innovative new avocado products for customers such as the Avozilla or frozen avocado which we launched last year.

"With this, the U.K.’s first ever avocado spread, our product developers have created a new and exciting way for shoppers to benefit from the excellent health credentials of avocados in even more ways."

In the last year demand for avocados at Tesco has increased 40% making it one of the U.K.’s fastest growing established fruit varieties.

The avocado spread costs £1.20 (US$1.74) and contains less saturated fat, calories and sales compared to butter.

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